12 Years A Slave Posters Recalled In Italy

Italian distributor BIM Distibuzione has issued a statement apologising for the recent “12 Years a Slave” posters which have caused quite a bit of controversy over the holiday break.

The one-sheets effectively portrayed Brad Pitt and Michael Fassbender as the stars of the movie, despite the fact that they had small supporting roles. The main star, Chiwetel Ejiofor, was relegated to a corner.

Following claims of racism, Summit Entertainment issued the statement: “Summit Entertainment is investigating and taking immediate action to stop the distribution of any unauthorized posters and to have those posters currently in the marketplace recalled,” said the statement.

BIM has now released their own: “We apologize for creating and releasing unauthorized posters for ’12 Years A Slave’ in Italy featuring Brad Pitt and Michael Fassbender in a manner inconsistent with approved advertising materials. All inappropriate materials have now been withdrawn. We are very proud of the film and regret any distraction this incident may have caused.”